Lombardi’s Way - A column from the 24×7 founder that focuses on the Ravens, the NFL, Baltimore, the world of sports or life’s inspirations.

Word on The Street - In the spirit of the CBS Sports Minute with Boomer Esiason, RSR brings you Word on The Street, a 90 second (or less) podcast on topics exclusively relating to the Baltimore Ravens.

Ravens Links - We’ll give you the best stories about the Ravens from around the web three times per week.

The Fanimal - If you are an animal about the Baltimore Ravens, then you are a Fanimal! Follow the Russell Street Report blog Fanimal Crackers!

The Edgar Awards - The Edgar Awards will range from the Maryland county that is home to the best Ravens fans to the best Ravens podcast; from the best collection of displaced fans to the best local craft brews that should be part of your next tailgating party.

The Road to RSR - Our writers explains their journeys as fans and how they came to write for our little corner of sports media.

Looking ahead at 2019’s calendar, sports fans have some real treats in store. To top it off, things just got a little more exciting for US residents, given it is now legal to bet on sports in a number of US states. This means you can back your favourite teams or players for victory and secure considerable cash prizes with websites like Caesars casino and sports. Before you get started, here are a few need-to-knows about sports betting, and some tips for keeping things under control.

Where can I sports bet legally?

First things first, you must establish whether you are in the lucky few states that have been granted access to sports betting. Currently, sports betting has been legalised in the states of Nevada, New Mexico, New Jersey, Mississippi, Delaware, Rhode Island and West Virginia. However, Arkansas, Connecticut, Florida, Kentucky, Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, Michigan, New York, Ohio and Oregon, are rumoured to not be too far behind.

Educate yourself

One key step towards gambling responsibly is knowing your stuff. If you’re a complete novice to both the world of sport and how online gambling works, do yourself a favour and do some research before you dive in head first. Develop an understanding of the different teams and players out there, otherwise you might end up backing a dud horse – a mistake that could be easily avoided with just a touch of research. Additionally, take a little time to understand odds and how they work. The more knowledge you acquire, the better chance you have of winning.

Know your boundaries

As with every area of life, it’s important to set boundaries and to know your limits. The same applies to keeping sports betting under control. For example, setting time limits is very sensible. They will stop you wasting precious time that should be spent with friends or family, on your other hobbies…or your job! Money limits are also absolutely vital. Only bet on sports with money that you are willing to lose, and that you have set aside separately from the account you pay your bills from specifically for this pastime. Don’t be tempted to wager more than you normally would simply because you’re in the company of someone with a bigger budget. To keep things under control, always bear in mind that you are sports betting as a hobby rather than for your monthly pay packet. Know when to walk away and never try to chase your losses.

Sports betting for enjoyment

Only bet on sports when you’re feeling at your best, and certainly don’t indulge in it while you’re under the influence of drink or drugs – otherwise those all-important limits are likely to fly right out the window! Sports betting should never be relied upon to lift your mood, or to snap you out of depression. If you lose, which happens, those negative feelings could be magnified and that’s the last thing you want.

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About Michael O'Nair

Our sometimes Media Watchdog, Michael O'Nair enjoys keeping an eye on the happenings in local Baltimore sports airwaves. He also keeps an eye on the betting lines, letting you know when to hold, when to fold, and when to go all in on the Ravens. More from Michael O'Nair

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Lombardi’s Way - A column from the 24×7 founder that focuses on the Ravens, the NFL, Baltimore, the world of sports or life’s inspirations.

Word on The Street - In the spirit of the CBS Sports Minute with Boomer Esiason, RSR brings you Word on The Street, a 90 second (or less) podcast on topics exclusively relating to the Baltimore Ravens.

Ravens Links - We’ll give you the best stories about the Ravens from around the web three times per week.

The Fanimal - If you are an animal about the Baltimore Ravens, then you are a Fanimal! Follow the Russell Street Report blog Fanimal Crackers!

The Edgar Awards - The Edgar Awards will range from the Maryland county that is home to the best Ravens fans to the best Ravens podcast; from the best collection of displaced fans to the best local craft brews that should be part of your next tailgating party.

The Road to RSR - Our writers explains their journeys as fans and how they came to write for our little corner of sports media.